Monday, May 14, 2012

Planter Watering Trough


Our family recently got back from a two week vacation to Washington.  It was quite an adventure, and as much fun as we all had with Todd's family, I was definitely glad to be home.  

The first week was spent with Todd's dad and brothers (and sister-in-love) in Soap Lake.  For those of you who are not familiar with this lovely spot in Central Washington, it is right smack dab in the center of ag country in Grant County, east of Ephrata and northwest of Moses Lake.  The humidity while we were there was around 40% almost the entire time (except when it rained and spiked at 50%!).  For someone who is used to 75% humidity on the coast...well let's just say my sinuses were not thanking me.

In the midst of all of this dryness, I spotted the coolest idea ever!  The idea was unintentionally inspired, as my father-in-law had simply put the jug of water in his rhubarb patch as a way to remind him to water them, but still the idea took flight.

After last year's disaster with my herb garden, I was looking for a way create a "trickle irrigation" system without running water all the time.  Seeing that jug sitting in the garden sent my brain whirling.  Why not poke holes in the bottom of a jug of water to keep the garden constantly moist with only having to "water" once a day.


So, as soon as I finished my first gallon of milk I rinsed it and pounced in to action.  All you need is a gallon jug, scissors, a sewing needle (at first I used an upholstery needle, but a smaller embroidery needle is better), and matches (use a candle to keep a constant flame going).


Take the scissors and cut the top of the jug off, leaving the handle.


Light a candle and hold the needle in the flame until it is hot enough to melt plastic (I counted to five).  Immediately poke a hole in the bottom of the jug.  Repeat five more times.  For my first jug I poked twelve holes, but the water drained too fast.  Six holes are truly the best.  Keep them spaced evenly.

Afterwards, place the jug in the planter and fill with water.  It truly works!

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